Kiko Casilla’s ban has given Illan Meslier an excellent opportunity to establish himself at Elland Road. The French youngster arrived as an unknown quantity in the summer on loan from FC Lorient.
Even though Casilla was behind some glaring errors, Meslier had to be patient for his chances. Meslier impressed initially against Arsenal in the FA Cup where he was assured with his ball-handling and accurate with his distribution.
Danny Mills Believes Meslier Can Become First Choice Goalkeeper
Former Leeds United defender Danny Mills recently said that Meslier is an able deputy for Casilla. Speaking to Football Insider, Mills said, “It is great to come in and get a clean sheet, even if you do not have much to do, you need that. He made a couple of saves which will do him that world of good. I think they have got a very able deputy in there.
“If he plays well, Leeds go up; suddenly, he has given himself a real shot in the arm. Coming back into next season he might not just be considered number two; he might be really pushing for number one. If he comes up with some big performances in big games, crucial games where you are under an awful lot of scrutiny and pressure, the kid will have a chance. It happens. Everybody needs an opportunity.”
Mills believes that Meslier has a chance to become a first-choice goalkeeper. The scenario laid down by Mills is definitely possible as Casilla hasn’t been consistent enough in goal in the past year. He has made some high profile mistakes, but Bielsa has continued to back him even though he has been under immense scrutiny.
Where Meslier Can Become First Choice Over Casilla?
If Meslier can put in assured displays, then Casilla would undoubtedly find it hard to regain his place in the starting XI. Given Meslier’s height advantage, he is better than Casilla in claiming set pieces by coming off the line. Conceding soft goals from set-pieces has been one of the weaknesses of the Whites and Meslier is someone who can solve some of that problem by grabbing high balls using his reach of 6ft5 inches.
Leeds have an option to buy Meslier permanently in the summer for £5m according to Phil Hay. Given the quality the young custodian has shown, that would certainly be a bargain. He wasn’t tested much in terms of saving shots against Hull City where United romped towards an easy win. If the French goalkeeper can stand up and make himself counted in some of the big games, then Casilla’s place could certainly be in trouble even when he becomes available for selection.
